Gary Johnson is the performance artist candidate we’ve been waiting for. Or, more specifically, he sometimes utilizes performance to communicate his ideas. Often, it is read as “class-clown” humor (which is a fair observation) but there is a part of me that respects his acknowledgment of non-traditional forms of communication. Unfortunately for Johnson, however, when you are running for president these performances are only effective when they articulate a nuanced understanding of complex issues rather than deflect or derail the conversation at hand. Here is a good example of how he used performance to make his point.[ via Young Turks Youtube page ]

CUBS WIN! The takeaway from the next day’s papers is that professional photographers are professionals for a reason.[ via petapixel.com ]

I was thinking about this weaponization of tears as a response/alternative/combat stance to the tear inducing mechanisms of riot police. Pepper spray in reverse.[ via dezeen.com ]

Supporting unions and in particular the Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 234 is especially important during contract negotiations and strikes like the one taking place right now. While the SEPTA shutdown is inconvenient, weak or nonexistent unions would be much worse. Plus, we all know who is really behind the strike–the nefarious puppet master community bike-share lobby:[ via NBC Philadelphia ]

Another important aspect of the strike is its effect on Philadelphia public school students. 30,000 students use SEPTA trans passes to get to school everyday. Not to be overlooked is how the strike disproportionately affects the students (and Philadelphians in general) with the fewest transportation alternatives and the longest commutes.[ via Newsworks ]